ONE ROLE AT A TIME. Up-and-coming actor Logan Shroyer talks about his character from hit TV show “This Is Us” and his upcoming projects

Like many Hollywood actors before him, Logan Shroyer started with one small role and eventually moved on to play many bigger characters. He started gaining recognition for appearing in the “Gortimer Gibbon’s Life on Normal Street” TV series and afterwards landed a recurring role as Cole Campbell in “The Thundermans,” before eventually making his way to his most defining role in acclaimed drama show “This Is Us.”

With his all-American boyish good looks, the young actor brought a new level of energy to Kevin Pearson, one of the most intriguing characters from the hit series. As the second season of “This Is Us” picks up, Shroyer shares a bit of insight to his life’s story and what’s next for him.

DA MAN: Hi Logan, it’s great to have you with us. Since it’s a new year and all, how was 2017 for you?Logan Shroyer: It has been an amazing year! getting promoted to a series’ regular for “This Is Us” is one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Let’s just say 2017 has lived up to the hype.

DA MAN: So, let’s talk about “This Is Us.” What was it like coming into this acclaimed-drama show, especially with its 11 emmy nominations last year alone?Logan Shroyer: I feel extremely honored to be given such a big opportunity. There have been so many incredible moments this season and it’s been great to have the time to really live the character and work so closely with Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore and my other cast mates.

DA MAN: Can you give us a synopsis of “This Is Us”? For our readers who are still new to the show…Logan Shroyer: For those who are new to the show, “This Is Us” follows the lives of the Pearson family and jumps back and forth from present day to the past, telling a generational story that is comprised of love, heartbreak, happiness, and everything in between.

DA MAN: From what we’ve learned so far, “This Is Us” season two remains occasionally melodramatic. What kind of developments can audiences expect as the story progresses?Logan Shroyer: In this season, we start to see the characters really break—especially Kevin. As the writers give us more and more information around Jack’s death, you will start to really see who these characters are and all of the layers underneath that comprise them.

DA MAN: Correct us if we’re wrong, but we’re only several episodes away for the season two finale. What can you tell us about how this season closes?Logan Shroyer: There are two parts to this: one, if I did know, I couldn’t tell you and two, the writers haven’t sent out the scripts for the finale. Usually, I am just as surprised as the audience to see where they take the show.

DA MAN: What first attracted you to the character of teenage Kevin and how did you end up being cast as him?Logan Shroyer: At the time of my audition, “This Is Us” wasn’t yet the show that it is today. It was something new and different. I felt the writing was incredible and the opportunity to work with Dan Fogelman was additionally enticing. Funny enough, I almost didn’t make it. It’s a good thing I did because they cast the part the next day.

“Honestly, I wasn’t the kid that always dreamed of being an actor”

DA MAN: Between season one and two, which version of Kevin do you enjoy playing the most?Logan Shroyer: I’d have to say the season two. Getting to explore the layers and complexities that are Kevin Pearson has been so rewarding as an actor.

DA MAN: What particular traits do you enjoy bringing out in teenage Kevin?Logan Shroyer: When you play this character, you have to create justifications for his misbehavior or attitude, and it’s really interesting to play with feeling guilty but at the same time lashing out.

DA MAN: All in all, what does the teenage Kevin mean to you?Logan Shroyer: Teenage Kevin embodies the balance between human issues. He’s flawed but also good, and struggles between being grateful and empathetic, while also living in a world where people idolize him.

DA MAN: Are you still able to enjoy “This Is Us” as a viewer, though?Logan Shroyer: Definitely. One thing that is great about this show is that I’m not in it for entire time periods; so, I can genuinely be a fan and watch the work of my cast mates.

DA MAN: Do you have any favorite or unforgettable moments over the course of the season?Logan Shroyer: I would have to say episode eight. Having the opportunity to have played Kevin Pearson for a while, I was always hoping for something like this episode. I was so excited for the audience to see what Kevin has been struggling with and how his journey began.

“It’s really interesting to play with feeling guilty but at the same time lashing out”

DA MAN: How about moments or scenes that you find particularly challenging during shooting?Logan Shroyer: I remember reading the scene in episode eight, set in the hospital and I quickly realized this was where I really needed to bring it as an actor. I talked to Milo Ventimiglia a lot on set before we shot the scene and having him there has been a blessing.

DA MAN: Obviously, “This Is Us” has been a huge hit. Have you experienced any interesting fan encounters after appearing in the show?Logan Shroyer: Yeah. At the start of season two, Niles Fitch and I were walking around at The Grove in Los Angeles, and ended up being followed by 12 middle school girls and their moms. Let’s just say it made for an interesting group picture. [Laughs]

DA MAN: You’re also set to appear in “The Relic.” Can you tell us more about this title and your role in it?Logan Shroyer: “The Relic” is a much bigger responsibility. In this project, I’m co-directing, writing, producing and acting. It’s a lot to do, but it has been very rewarding because I’m working with my friends and the people that are close to me.

DA MAN: How, in your opinion, does “The Relic” stand apart from other supernatural shows?Logan Shroyer: “The Relic” is actually written as a feature film and we’re releasing it in parts on Instagram. Something about the one minute time restriction on Instagram seemed like something fun and challenging to experiment with. We post every Thursday through @therelic on Instagram. Check it out!

DA MAN: As you’ve mentioned earlier, you’re also listed as one of the directors of “The Relic” alongside your co-stars Jalen Jet Turner and Kevin Torres. Is directing also one of your passions?Logan Shroyer: Yes. Directing is something that I’ve always wanted for a while, because for the longest time I’ve just watched movies and studied them as if I was directing them. I’m excited to actually be directing a project, especially one that is inclusive of all my friends.

DA MAN: When you’re not busy working on a project, how do you usually spend your day?Logan Shroyer: On a free day, I’ll reach out to the people I haven’t connected with in a while. Now that most of my friends are in college, I try to make a point to see them when they’re in town so that usually means surfing, bowling and whatever else we spontaneously decide to do.

DA MAN: In terms of fashion and clothing, how would you best describe your own personal style?Logan Shroyer: I really love John Varvatos and fashion brands that have a classic and timeless style.

DA MAN: Which talent would you most like to have?Logan Shroyer: I would love to be able to speed read really well. I can’t enjoy something if I just skim through it. I have to take my time with things, if I really want to fully understand them.

Jacket by J. Brand; shirt by Junker; sunglasses by Local Supply

DA MAN: Looking back, what was it that drew you to acting in the first place?Logan Shroyer: Honestly, I wasn’t the kid that always dreamed of being an actor. My parents suggested I try acting since I had essentially quit sports when I was twelve years old.

DA MAN: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?Logan Shroyer: I would like to be able to be more present, because I constantly find myself spinning in my head thinking about other things. And sometimes because of that I miss out.

DA MAN: Final question, and a bit cliché perhaps, but what is your number one resolution for 2018?Logan Shroyer: Now that you asked that question, I’m going to make my resolution to be more present and in the moment.